Tips for Buying Plus Size Shoes

Women who use plus size shoes often find shopping a difficult experience. The search for a pair of shoes that fits you perfectly ends up being a Herculean task. Shoe styles and sizes that suit the majority of shoppers do not meet your requirements. However this seemingly tedious experience can be made a lot more simple and enjoyable if you pay close attention to your needs before you embark on your search. Here are some tips which help you select the right plus size women shoes for wide and large feet.

1 – Use feet measurements

Get your feet measured by an expert and determine the size that best suits you. Though sizes remain standard, different shoes fit differently depending on the style and design. Also check if your feet are large or just extra wide. This helps you choose the right pair accordingly.

2 – Check for brands that sell plus size shoes

Many brands these days sell plus size footwear. Check online and offline for specific ones that house footwear for people with large or wide feet. Most often, large format stores that carry large size clothing also stock plus size shoes.

3 – Invest in quality not quantity

While it is tempted to get carried away by the range of stylish and trendy shoes in smaller sizes, it is better to invest in a less fancy, well suited pair of shoes. If they don’t fit you, or if they hurt when you wear them, chances are that you will hardly use them. Instead, pick a pair that works well even if it is not that stylish or fascinating. Rather than waste your money on multiple pairs of beautiful but uncomfortable shoes, invest in one well-fitting pair.

4 – Pick shoe styles that work

For people who have large or wide feet, not all shoe styles work. The bigger spread of the feet also means that base of the shoe needs to be wider enough to provide better grip and support when walking. Choose flats or platform heels over stilettos. Opt for pumps that are rounded and not pointed. Pick lace up shoes or classic oxfords. Unisex shoes styles also tend to be a lot more comfortable for people who have large feet. Use proper a sole padding to keep your feet free from pain and shoe bites and blisters.

5 – Try on footwear

Before you buy a pair of larger size shoes, it is advisable to try it on to ensure proper fitting. A well suited pair of shoes has about half an inch of free space around the feet. Pinch around the toes to see that there is enough room around them. Insert your index finger in the shoe around the heel. In a well- fitting shoe, the finger will slide in without much effort. Also when trying on shoes, wear the same sock or stocking that you will actually use with your shoes. This helps you measure the fit correctly.

6 – Pick shoes with adjustable features

For people with plus size feet, shoes with adjustable features are a boon. Select a pair that either has an elastic, a buckle, or a Velcro adjustment. As with the number of straps, keep them to the minimum. Preferably, select a pair that either has a T strap or one each, around the toe and the ankle. This allows for more room and keeps the feet free from constriction while walking.

7 – Use shoe stretching products

If you are just not able to find a well-fitting shoe, you could take the help of shoe stretching products. These include sprays and wooden frames that stretch shoes to give a better fitting. Take the help of a cobbler or a local footwear shop if you are unable to lay your hands on these products.